“At Explorea, we create journeys that take you from the heart of Anchorage to the wilderness of Denali, through pretty towns like Talkeetna, along scenic highways, and across glacial waters.”
Day 1:
Landing in Anchorage and Heading to Denali National Park
• Arrival in Anchorage: Touch down in Anchorage, ready to begin your Alaskan journey.
• Scenic Drive to Denali National Park: Pick up your rental car and embark on a breathtaking drive to Denali, passing majestic mountains, lush forests, and flowing rivers.
• Stay near Denali National Park: Settle into a cozy lodge near the park’s entrance, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by Alaska’s stunning wilderness.
• First Taste of Alaska’s Wild Beauty: Enjoy clear skies, fresh mountain air, and endless natural views – the perfect start to an unforgettable adventure
Day 2:
Exploring Denali National Park
Denali National Park is one of Alaska’s most iconic destinations, known for its rugged beauty and diverse wildlife. Spanning over six million acres, it’s a place where towering mountains, pristine rivers, and endless tundra landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see.
• Park Access: Denali Park Road open to mile 45.4 due to landslide; access limited to 30% of the park until 2026.
• Drive along the Denali Park Road: Spot diverse wildlife including Grizzly bear, arctic ground squirrels, moose, elk, Dall sheep and a variety of birds including bald eagle s and jays along the scenic drive. Enjoy stunning views of Alaska’s rugged beauty and snow-capped peaks.
Day 3:
Discovering Talkeetna en Route to Seward
• On the Road to Seward: After an exciting day at Denali, set off south toward Seward, eager for more adventures.
• Stop and recharge in Talkeetna: Visit this quirky, charming town known for its adventurous spirit, eclectic shops, and cozy cafes. Enjoy the relaxed vibe and mountain views. Take time for a hearty meal and some souvenir shopping before continuing your journey south.
• Drive the Scenic Seward Highway: Experience Alaska’s most stunning route along Turnagain Arm, with views of fjords, mountains, and valleys. Note: This is a single road, so plan for possible delays.
• Arrive in Seward: Explore the lively harbor town, a gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, where fishing boats and kayaks add to the peaceful, bustling energy.
Day 4:
Wildlife and Glacier Adventure with Major Marine Cruises
• Set Sail on a Half-Day Adventure: Embark on a thrilling journey along the Alaskan coastline with Major Marine Cruises, ready for unforgettable wildlife and glacier views.
• Incredible Wildlife Sightings: Spot humpback whales breaching, sea otters floating, sea lions basking on rocky outcrops, and bald eagles soaring above. Enjoy the sight of puffins diving into the sea.
• Breathtaking Glacier Views: Witness the stunning blue glow of a towering glacier. Feel the awe as pieces of ice calve off, crashing into the water with a powerful roar.
Day 5:
Flying to King Salmon
• Arrive in King Salmon: A charming town and gateway to Katmai National Park, famous for the Salmon Run at Brooks Falls.
• Witness Grizzly Bears: See grizzly bears gathering to catch salmon swimming upstream, an iconic Alaskan experience.
• Travel Options: Choose between a scenic water plane from Anchorage or the budget-friendly route via King Salmon, allowing for a deeper look at Alaska’s remote beauty.
Day 6:
Visiting Brooks Falls at Katmai National Park
• Incredible Wildlife Spectacle: Over 50 bears gather, some fishing at the falls, others resting on riverbanks, and a few playfully wrestling in the water.
• Mesmerizing Bear Encounters: A rare chance to watch these powerful creatures up close in their natural habitat.
• Guided by Park Rangers: Knowledgeable rangers ensure safe, respectful viewing for a truly unforgettable experience.
Final Thoughts on Alaska
Our journey through Alaska left us in awe of nature’s grandeur. Each destination—from the rugged landscapes of Denali to the bustling harbor of Seward and the wildlife haven of Brooks Falls—offered a unique glimpse into the untamed beauty of this northern state. Every day brought new surprises and unforgettable experiences, whether it was spotting a bear in Denali, watching a humpback whale breach, or witnessing the legendary Salmon Run.
Next on our bucket list? Heading even further north to track polar bears in their natural habitat. Alaska, thank you for the memories—we’ll be back for more.